Distracted Driving Laws in Washington

1. What is the legal age to have a cell phone while driving in Washington?


The legal age to have a cell phone while driving in Washington is 18 years old.

2. Does Washington have a law prohibiting texting while driving?


Yes, Washington state has a law that prohibits texting while driving.

3. Is it illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Washington?


Yes, it is illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Washington. In 2020, Washington State passed a law that prohibits any use of a handheld device while driving, including talking, texting, scrolling, or accessing apps.

4. What are the fines for distracted driving in Washington?


In Washington, the fines for distracted driving range from $136 to $235 for a first offense, depending on the county. Subsequent offenses carry fines of up to $545. Additionally, drivers can be assessed five points on their driver’s license for each offense.

5. Does Washington allow hands-free talking on devices while driving?


Yes, Washington does allow hands-free talking on devices while driving. According to Washington state law, drivers are prohibited from holding a cell phone in either hand while driving and must use a hands-free device to talk on the phone while driving.

6. Does Washington have a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving?


Yes, Washington enacted a new law in June 2019 that prohibits the use of cell phones and other electronic devices for any purpose while behind the wheel. This includes using social media. The law also bans talking on a handheld device while driving.

7. Is it illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Washington?


Yes. In Washington, it is illegal to talk on the phone while driving, with some exceptions. The law applies to all drivers, regardless of age. Drivers are only allowed to use hands-free devices while driving.

8. Is it illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Washington?


No, it is not illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Washington. However, it is illegal to text or email while behind the wheel in Washington.

9. Are there any state laws in Washington requiring hands-free headsets for drivers?


Yes, in Washington, drivers are prohibited from using handheld cell phones while driving. The law requires that drivers use a hands-free device such as a headset or speakerphone. This law does not apply to passengers in the vehicle, only to the driver.

10. Does Washington have a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit?


Yes, Washington does have a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit. The law states that any person with a learner’s permit must not use a cell phone or other communication device while operating a motor vehicle.

11. Is it legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in Washington?


Yes, it is legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in Washington.

12. Does Washington have a law against any type of driver distraction?


Yes, Washington has a law for distracted driving. The law is called the E-DUI Law, and it makes it illegal to use any device that distracts you from the task of safely operating a motor vehicle. This includes handheld cell phones, tablets, laptops, MP3 players, and any other electronic devices. Violating this law can result in fines and other penalties.

13. Are there any restrictions on phone use in school zones in Washington?


Yes, there are restrictions on phone use in school zones in Washington. It is illegal to talk on a hand-held phone while driving in a school zone, and drivers are prohibited from texting or using the internet while in a school zone.

14. Does Washington have an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations?


Yes, Washington has an administrative license suspension (ALS) for distracted driving violations. According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, an ALS can apply if a driver is convicted of a distracted driving violation, or if a driver refuses to submit to a breath test or chemical test.

15. Is it illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Washington?


Yes, it is illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Washington. This applies to handheld cell phone use as well as other types of electronic devices.

16. Does Washington have an underage cellphone law which prohibits those under 18 from talking on their phones or texting while driving?


Yes, Washington State has an underage cellphone law which prohibits those under 18 from talking on their phones or texting while driving. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to use a mobile device while driving a motor vehicle (including talking, texting, and using apps).

17. Are there any restrictions on eating and drinking while driving in Washington?


Yes, Washington has a distracted driving law that restricts eating and drinking while driving. The law states that it is illegal to eat or drink while driving if it interferes with the safe operation of the vehicle.

18. What is the penalty for distracted driving violations in Washington?


The penalty for a distracted driving violation in Washington state is a maximum fine of $136. Additionally, the driver may receive one point on their license and/or an increased insurance rate.

19. Are police officers allowed to pull over drivers for using their cell phones in Washington?


Yes, police officers are allowed to pull over drivers for using their cell phones while driving in the state of Washington. Cell phone use is considered a primary offense, meaning that an officer can pull a driver over solely for using their cell phone. In Washington, it is illegal to use a handheld device while driving or stopped in traffic.

20. Does Washington impose any restrictions on children under 18 using their cell phones in the car?


Yes, Washington state imposes limits on the use of cell phones by people under 18 years of age. According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, “it is illegal for drivers under the age of 18 to use any type of wireless communication device while driving, including cell phones, text messaging devices, pagers, and two-way radios.”